Breast implant removal is generally a safe operation, but like all surgery it carries risks. These include bleeding, infection, fluid collections, changes in breast shape and, when the capsule is removed, risks linked to the deeper dissection. Knowing what is normal and what needs attention helps you recover with confidence.
General surgical risks
Every operation under general anaesthetic carries some shared risks:
- Bleeding: a haematoma, a collection of blood, may need a return to theatre. Stopping certain supplements and blood-thinning medicines beforehand, on medical advice, reduces the risk.
- Infection: usually treated with antibiotics. Careful sterile technique and good wound care reduce it.
- Blood clots (VTE): deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Early walking, compression stockings and, for some patients, blood-thinning injections lower the risk.
- Anaesthetic risks: assessed beforehand by a consultant anaesthetist, who reviews your health and medicines.
Risks specific to implant removal
Some risks relate directly to taking the implants out:
- Change in breast shape: the breasts may look flatter, emptier or lower once the volume of the implant has gone. This is the most common reason for dissatisfaction.
- Skin laxity and dimpling: stretched skin may not fully retract, and there can be areas of rippling or dents.
- Asymmetry: differences between the breasts may become more noticeable.
- Seroma: fluid can collect in the space where the implant sat, and may need draining in clinic.
- Nipple sensation: sensation may change, usually temporarily.
Additional risks of capsulectomy
Removing the scar capsule around the implant is sometimes recommended, for example with capsular contracture, a ruptured silicone implant or when the capsule needs laboratory analysis. The capsule can be thin and stuck to the ribs or chest muscle, particularly when implants sit under the muscle. Removing it involves a larger raw surface, so there is a greater chance of bleeding and seroma, and drains are more often used. Rarely, when the capsule is very adherent to the chest wall, there is a small risk of injury to the lining of the lung. Mr Nassab weighs these risks against the benefit of removing the capsule and explains his recommendation to you.
How risks are reduced
Safety starts well before the day of surgery:
- Thorough assessment: a full medical history, examination and, where needed, an ultrasound or MRI scan of the implants.
- Stopping smoking and nicotine: for at least six weeks before and after surgery, as nicotine slows healing.
- Accredited hospital: surgery in a CQC-registered hospital with a consultant anaesthetist.
- Clear aftercare: written instructions, a support bra and planned follow-up visits.
What is normal after surgery
In the first few weeks it is common to have bruising, swelling, tightness, some numbness around the incision and a feeling that the breasts are uneven. The breasts may appear deflated at first and gradually soften as the tissues settle. Mild aching that improves each day is expected. These changes are part of normal healing rather than signs of a complication, and the team will check on them at your follow-up visits.
When to contact someone
Please seek help promptly if you notice any of the following:
- One breast swelling rapidly or becoming tense and painful: contact the surgical team urgently.
- Fever or spreading redness around a wound: contact the team the same day.
- Sudden one-sided calf pain or leg swelling: see your GP or call NHS 111 the same day.
- Chest pain or breathlessness: call 999.
A note on symptoms attributed to implants
Some women seek removal because of general symptoms such as fatigue or joint aches that they link to their implants. Mr Nassab will listen carefully and take these concerns seriously. It is important to know that removal cannot be promised to resolve such symptoms, and other medical causes should be explored with your GP. The decision to remove implants is always yours, made with clear information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is implant removal riskier than augmentation?
The general risks are similar. Removal without capsule surgery is often simpler, while a total capsulectomy involves a deeper dissection and slightly different risks.
Will my breasts sag after removal?
They may look lower or looser, especially after large implants, pregnancy or weight change. A lift can be considered at the same time or later.
How is a seroma treated?
Many small seromas settle on their own. Larger ones may be drained with a fine needle in clinic, sometimes more than once.
Does removal affect breast screening?
Removing implants can make mammograms more straightforward. Continue with routine screening when invited and tell the radiographer about your previous surgery.
Can the risk of clots be reduced?
Yes. Stay well hydrated, walk regularly from the day of surgery, wear stockings if advised and avoid long journeys in the first few weeks.
